MANILA, July 8 (Xinhuanet) -- A key ally party of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Friday joined calls for President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to resign.

    The Liberal Party made the call during a meeting Friday, Senate President and LP chief Franklin Drilon who is the party's chairman said.

    Drilon said 20 leading members of the party voted for Arroyo's resignation, 11 for her impeachment, one for the status quo, and one for her to go on leave of absence.

    Attending the meeting were Manila's mayor Lito Atienza and Tarlac Representative Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, who is the son of former President Cory Aquino.

    Environment Secretary Michael Defensor who is a close friend of Arroyo was the only one among the leading members of the party who wanted the president to stay. Enditem